04-26-2022, 11:32 AM
https://www.yahoo.com/finance/news/russi...59894.html
Interesting play by Russia. If Germany is given the same treatment, what do they do? Do they pay in Rubles? If not, and Russia cuts off the gas, Russia would be doing what I have hoped Germany would do themselves. This will cut off a revenue stream to Russia that constitutes a major part of their federal budget. I can only imagine Putin figures Germany will cave, either immediately or eventually. Poland isn't a big deal perhaps, but Germany certainly is. Otherwise it makes no sense.
The Germany government hasn't exactly been taking a strong line the last week or so. Hopefully Biden et al have been "coordinating" with Germany to ensure Germany does the "Right Thing". Macron, now that he is securely in office, should be doing the same. If Germany does cave, the damage to EU/US solidarity will be very large. I think it would also damage NATO's credibility. For Ukraine's sake, and the world's sake, I really hope Germany holds up their end. Of course, maybe Putin is just pissed at Poland and figures he can do this and still give Germany a pass to get the money.
Interesting play by Russia. If Germany is given the same treatment, what do they do? Do they pay in Rubles? If not, and Russia cuts off the gas, Russia would be doing what I have hoped Germany would do themselves. This will cut off a revenue stream to Russia that constitutes a major part of their federal budget. I can only imagine Putin figures Germany will cave, either immediately or eventually. Poland isn't a big deal perhaps, but Germany certainly is. Otherwise it makes no sense.
The Germany government hasn't exactly been taking a strong line the last week or so. Hopefully Biden et al have been "coordinating" with Germany to ensure Germany does the "Right Thing". Macron, now that he is securely in office, should be doing the same. If Germany does cave, the damage to EU/US solidarity will be very large. I think it would also damage NATO's credibility. For Ukraine's sake, and the world's sake, I really hope Germany holds up their end. Of course, maybe Putin is just pissed at Poland and figures he can do this and still give Germany a pass to get the money.